MONTREAL, Feb. 25, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Six years ago, an important movement was launched in Quebec to make student retention a provincial priority. Behind this movement was a Group d'action (the Groupe d'action sur la persévérance et la réussite scolaires au Québec). And behind the Groupe d'action was a man who invested his energy in this cause, providing technical, human and financial resources to get the message out and ensure the movement's success: L. Jacques Ménard, president of BMO Financial Group, Quebec.

Mr. Ménard is now passing the torch to a new president for the Groupe d'action.

On February 27, the student retention community will gather to celebrate his commitment and dedication to ensuring the academic success of young Quebeckers. On this occasion, many public figures will pay tribute of Mr. Ménard and underscore the importance of the cause. The name of Mr. Ménard's successor will also be announced, and the new president will address the audience.